Disney Beware! Pokémon Zaps Into Universal Theme Parks, Starting with Japan (Shocking, Right?)

Disney is going to have some fierce competition from the biggest IP brand in the world. Universal Studios Japan revealed on January 22, 2026, a fresh partnership with The Pokémon Company to roll out immersive experiences that bring the Pokémon world to life, kicking off in Japan before heading to other Universal parks around the globe.

Here’s the TL;DR…

• Universal Studios Japan teams up with The Pokémon Company for “innovative, immersive” attractions that engage all five senses.

• The project builds on their 2021 alliance, including past parades and shows, and celebrates Pokémon’s 30th anniversary.

• No specific details or opening dates yet, but Japan gets the world premiere, with global expansion to follow.

• Pokémon stands as the world’s top-grossing media franchise, outpacing even Disney’s individual brands like Mickey Mouse.

The announcement came straight from Universal Studios Japan, marking a step up from their earlier collaborations. It promises experiences that feel “ultra-real,” pulling visitors into the Pokémon universe in ways that go beyond typical theme park fare.

What Exactly Is This New Pokémon Experience at Universal Studios Japan?

Details remain under wraps for now. Universal described the project as centered on interactions that stimulate sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. It’s not just another ride or show; think full immersion, like stepping into a Pokémon battle or exploration zone.

Past efforts at the park have included the NO LIMIT! Parade, where Pokémon characters march alongside other icons, and Halloween events with themed scares. This new venture aims higher, evolving those into something more permanent and interactive.

Tsunekazu Ishihara, president and CEO of The Pokémon Company, shared his take: “Since announcing our long-term alliance in 2021, we have collaborated with Universal Studios Japan to produce authentic Pokémon experiences such as the NO LIMIT! Parade and Halloween shows.” He added that the timing aligns with Pokémon’s 30th anniversary, calling it a milestone worth celebrating.

Why Start in Japan, and What’s the Plan for Global Expansion?

Japan makes sense as the birthplace of Pokémon, created by Satoshi Tajiri back in 1996. Universal Studios Japan already hosts Super Nintendo World, which features Mario and friends, so adding Pokémon fits the puzzle—especially since Nintendo holds a stake in The Pokémon Company.

After the Japan debut, the experiences will spread to other Universal sites, including those in the U.S., Singapore, and beyond. No timeline yet, but insiders suggest it could involve rides, attractions, or even dedicated lands.

Tak Murayama, executive vice president at Universal Studios Japan, noted the park’s track record with Pokémon since 2021 as a foundation for this “bold evolution.” Ishihara echoed that, saying the goal is to “create theme park entertainment that surprises and delights fans around the globe.”

How Does Pokémon Stack Up as the World’s Biggest Media Brand?

Pokémon isn’t just big—it’s the highest-grossing media franchise ever, raking in over $115 billion since its start. That figure dwarfs individual Disney brands, like Mickey Mouse and Friends at $61.2 billion. Sure, Disney as a company owns a slew of franchises totaling more, but Pokémon stands alone at the top.

The revenue breaks down to $103.6 billion from retail sales, $10.23 billion from mobile games like Pokémon GO, and over $1 billion from box office hits. It’s a juggernaut that started with Game Boy titles and exploded into cards, anime, movies, and merch. No wonder Universal wants in; this could draw crowds rivaling Harry Potter or Nintendo areas.

Even compared to Star Wars ($65.6 billion) or the Marvel Cinematic Universe (part of a larger $29.6 billion Marvel total), Pokémon’s reach is unmatched. It’s the kind of brand that keeps evolving, much like its creatures.

Are There Rumors of Pokémon Landing in Epic Universe at Universal Orlando?

Whispers have circulated for years about Pokémon hitting Universal Orlando Resort. Epic Universe, the new park that opened in 2025, already boasts Super Nintendo World with Mario-themed rides, but Pokémon could expand that or carve its own space.

Some sources point to replacing areas like the Lost Continent in Islands of Adventure with Pokémon attractions. Others speculate on swapping out Simpsons Land at Universal Studios Florida. Nothing’s confirmed, but the global rollout announcement fuels the fire—Orlando’s a prime spot given its massive visitor numbers.

Theme park experts note Universal‘s push for experiential entertainment, like the advanced animatronics in Epic Universe‘s How to Train Your Dragon land. Pokémon could leverage similar tech for lifelike Pikachu meet-and-greets or battle simulations. If it happens, expect long lines and boosted attendance.

What Makes This Partnership a Game-Changer for Theme Parks?

Universal‘s betting big on IP-driven attractions, and Pokémon fits perfectly amid the success of Super Nintendo World. Japan led with that land in 2021, followed by Hollywood in 2023 and Orlando in 2025— a pattern this Pokémon project might follow.

For fans, it means more ways to engage beyond screens. Imagine tasting Pokémon-inspired treats or feeling the rush of a virtual gym battle. It’s a natural extension for a franchise that’s always blurred real and virtual worlds.

Competitors like Disney watch closely, as Pokémon’s appeal spans generations. Universal‘s smaller-scale parks in Texas and horror spots in Vegas and Chicago might even get tailored versions.

Could This Lead to Full Pokémon Lands or Just Add-Ons?

Early signs suggest more than pop-up events. The “world-class” label hints at substantial builds, possibly lands with rides and shops. Universal‘s track record with Wizarding World shows they can deliver immersive zones that boost revenue.

In Japan, it might integrate with Super Nintendo World, given the Nintendo ties. Globally, adaptations could vary—Orlando might get a sprawling area, while Hollywood squeezes in something compact.

No word on costs or timelines, but updates are promised soon. For now, it’s exciting news for anyone who’s ever dreamed of catching ‘em all in real life.

This move underscores Pokémon’s enduring pull and Universal‘s strategy to diversify beyond classics like Jurassic Park. As theme parks rebound post-pandemic, IP like this keeps the gates swinging. Fans get fresh adventures, and parks get steady crowds— a win-win that could redefine immersive entertainment for years to come.

Hat Tips

• Dexerto, “Universal Studios reveals new “immersive” Pokemon experience with global rollout,” January 22, 2026 https://www.dexerto.com/pokemon/universal-studios-reveals-new-immersive-pokemon-experience-with-global-rollout-3308004/

• Universal Studios Japan official news, “Universal Studios Japan to Deliver Immersive Pokémon Experiences for Fans,” January 22, 2026 https://www.usj.co.jp/company/company_e/news/2026/0122

• Wikipedia, “List of highest-grossing media franchises,” accessed January 22, 2026 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_highest-grossing_media_franchises

• The Hollywood Reporter, “Gotta Catch Em All: Universal’s Latest Theme Park IP Deal Will Bring Pokémon to Life,” January 22, 2026 https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/pokemon-universal-theme-parks-japan-1236481477

• Video Games Chronicle, “Official: Pokémon is coming to Universal Studios,” January 22, 2026 https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/official-pokemon-is-coming-to-universal-studios-japan

• Disney Tourist Blog, “World-Class Pokemon Rides Coming to Universal Parks!” January 22, 2026 https://www.disneytouristblog.com/pokemon-attractions-announced-universal-studios-japan-orlando-florida

• IGN, “Universal Studios Bringing ‘Pokémon World to Life’ as It Rolls Out ‘World-Class’ Attraction In Global Locations,” January 22, 2026 https://www.ign.com/articles/universal-studios-bringing-pokemon-world-to-life-as-it-rolls-out-world-class-attraction-in-global-locations